Words: Denise Mhlanga | Images: Supplied
Hirsch’s Hyde Park, a one-stop-shop selling quality, discounted products, opened a new store in May in Dunkeld West. CEO Allan Hirsch talks about the business.
How did your business start?
Hirsch’s started in 1979 as an appliance repair business. I soon realised there was a need to replace appliances that could be fixed at an affordable rate, and so together with my wife, Margaret, we replaced products and still continue – even to date – to offer repairs and services on all products sold at any of our stores. The selling of products was an added benefit to our one-stop solution offered to our customers. Currently, Hirsch’s has 13 stores in Cape Town, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, with Hyde Park being the latest addition to the group.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
We believe Hyde Park is the centre of the Joburg business community with a number of established businesses in the area.
How did you find your premises?
We worked through an agent and we had given her a mandate to find us premises in an upmarket area and, after a couple of years, she came back to us with what was the ideal store.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
It’s centrally located with great visibility. We sell upmarket quality products at discounted prices and the space is big enough to be a suitable one-stop shop to service the community’s needs.
Who are your neighbours?
Dunkeld West Shopping Centre.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
We own the premises, so I’m not sure what the rentals are in the area.
How many people come through your shop each day?
We see about 80 to 100 people each day.
Do you have any expansion plans?
In future, yes, and these will be mainly focused on growing our online business.
Do you operate online as well?
Yes, we do, our website provides comprehensive product information and customers can place their orders online as well. We also have interactive social-media pages including Facebook (@www.hirschs.co.za) and Instagram (@hirschs_homestores).
What’s your most popular product?
TVs and appliances.
Hirsch’s Hyde Park
010 001 8590
hirschs.co.za
